Exceptional mechanical robust and self-healable rosin-based elastomer through high steric hindrance rigid structures†

Abstract

The outstanding mechanical properties and self-healing properties of materials are theoretically mutually exclusive, so developing elastomers that combine these two characteristics is a significant challenge. Herein, a high-strength, tough, and room-temperature self-healing rosin-based polyurethane thermoplastic elastomer with a stress of 45.25 MPa, a substantial fracture strain of 1647%, and a superior toughness of 326.65 MJ m⁻³ was prepared by molecular design. The introduction of rosin increases the free volume of polyurethane network segments, thereby promoting the breaking and recombination of molecular interactions. This innovative design enables the material to exhibit good ductility and room temperature self-healing properties. At the same time, the introduction of the rosin structure enhances the interaction force between segments, thereby significantly improving the mechanical properties of the material. Finally, a sensor constructed using the elastomer and liquid metal could detect human torso movements. This study presents a viable strategy for the future development of polymers that possess both room-temperature self-healing capabilities and excellent mechanical properties through the utilization of rosin.